"We think this will attract a lot of attention in the wine industry. Red Mountain is the smallest AVA in Washington and this land has not been available for planting previously," said Scott Musser, auctioneer.

There are about 1,000 acres under winegrape cultivation in the AVA and this sale includes about 17 percent of the 3,040 acres that remain unplanted in the AVA, Musser said. The irrigation district has obtained water rights to provide pressurized water to the land, further enhancing its value, he said.

The land will sell in 31 parcels in a system allowing bidders equal chance at individual parcels or combinations of parcels, said Carl Carter, a Musser Bros. spokesman.

Vineyards in the AVA are known for acclaimed red varietals.

Completion of an irrigation district project will bring Yakima River water to the AVA by mid- to late-summer 2014, a year ahead of schedule, ensuring stable water supply to vineyards there, said Chuck Freeman, manager of the irrigation district.

Musser Bros. is located at 3035 Richenbacker Dr., Pasco. For more information: wwwmbauction.com or (509) 416-6060.